We will work to boost sales of Typhoon, says Defence Secretary

THE Government is to take a fresh look at how to get behind the Eurofighter Typhoon and help BAE Systems increase sales across the world.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon revealed the move during a visit to BAE Systems’ Lancashire sites to mark the completion of the 200th rear fuselage for the F-35 Lightning II programme.

Lancashire planemakers at Samlesbury and Warton produce both the Typhoon and Hawk trainer jet, and part of the American F-35.

BAE Systems says it has a £37bn order backlog for its planes and is actively pursuing new orders in a “competitive” market.

Mr Fallon said: “We are having a fresh look at how we promote Typhoon sales.

“The work of BAE Systems is very important both to the local economy and to UKPLC.

“All senior ministers who travel, and that includes the Prime Minister, promote Typhoon to potential buyers.”

BAE Systems workers in Samlesbury ’s assemble the aft fuselage of the F-35 before it is transported to Lockheed Martin’s final assembly facility in Fort Worth, Texas.

Mr Fallon said: “These fuselages, built in the North West, make up a significant amount of the manacturing work on every aircraft, and will be supplied to all nine of the nations involved in the F-35 programme.

“That’s not only a huge achievement for the British Defence industry on the world stage, but work on this cutting edge aircraft is also boosting the UK economy, supporting thousands of jobs across the country.”

Jon Evans, head of F-35 Lightning II Production Delivery for BAE Systems at Samlesbury, said: “The completion of the 200th aft fuselage is a significant milestone.”